 |
 |
To you who wondered if someone knew of research on amantadine. If there is new research on this drug that's a surprise to me as amantadine has been around as a protective against viral influenza and shingles since l966. In l968 a parkinsonian who began to take it for viral protection told her doctor that she felt more mobile. Trials were done which confirmed this patient's opinion. In the trials modest improvement in tremor, stiffness and slowness was noted. The benefits waned after a few months. I don't think anyone really knows how amantadine works for PD symptoms. It is somewhat more potent than anticholinergic drugs but benefits don't last as long. Untoward effects include swelling of ankles and a marbled purple discoloration of the skin of legs and feet, confusion, hallucinations.., dry mouth, and of course.....constipation. Barbara Yacos, R.N. <[log in to unmask]>